METRIC MODULATIONS

In this lesson we will look at what metric
modulations are, how they "work", and when they're used. A metric
modulation (MM) is basically when you imply a second time signature
over the top of the original time signature. There are hundreds of
examples of this, but let's take a simple one below. We will learn
the MM process in 3 steps to help outline the ideas used.

1)
Our original time signature will be 12/8, which sounds like 4/4 with
a triplet feel. Let's play a basic 12/8 rock beat..

2) Let's start playing a polyrhythm over the
top on the hihat, as an open hihat gliss on every 2nd triplet,
starting on beat 1.

3) The MM actually happens when you commit to
the polyrhythm and start phrasing off it, as if it were the primary
pulse. A simple beat like this for instance..

..sounds to the listener that the implied time
is actually 4/4 but at a faster speed. This is what most peoples
ears will hear..

WHEN WOULD I EVER USE METRIC
MODULATIONS?

Sometimes music is actually written
with these concepts in mind. Sophisticated styles of music like
Fusion, Electric Jazz, Modern Jazz, Prog Rock etc use them all the
time. But you can also launch into these ideas in any improvised
setting as well, to build rhythmic variety and interest.

Also Metric Modulations are a smart way at
ariving at a different speed. Often composers will use a concept
like Metric Modulations to get from a slower speed to a faster speed
(or vice versa) rather than simply changing the music to a non
related speed.